Sen. Durbin to energy drink CEOs: stop marketing youth

Sen. Dick Durbin speak to reporters outside of Scott Air Force Base, Ill., on Monday, Feb. 25, 2013, about the “sequestration cuts” and how it will affect Southern Illinois and Scott Air Force Base. (AP Photo/Belleville News-Democrat, Derik Holtmann)

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin is asking energy drink companies to stop marketing their products to children.

The Democratic senator from Illinois sent a letter Monday to the CEOs of Red Bull, Rockstar and Monster asking for an explanation for the companies’ sponsorship of sporting events that target children.

Durbin says the companies have often claimed they do not market their drinks to youngsters. But he says he is aware of multiple situations that contradict their claims.

Durbin cites several examples in his letter, including a high school football tournament and a motorcycle race for children as young as thirteen endorsed by Red Bull.

Durbin says his letter stems out of growing concerns during the past year about the potential health risks posed by energy drinks.